VA Eastern Kansas Health Care System

06/10/2026

Last month we celebrated our Colmery-O'Neil VA Medical Center Nurses for Nurses Week. Here are a few of the images from the great event. Congrats to all those who were nominated and were recognized for the outstanding care provided each day!

06/10/2026

The 60 Cannons of Franklin Avenue: A Legacy of the Western Branch

Did you know that at one time, 60 Civil War cannons lined the scenic Franklin Avenue at the Western Branch National Home for Volunteer Soldiers?

Established in 1885 in Leavenworth, Kansas, the Western Branch (now the Dwight D. Eisenhower VA Medical Center) was a sanctuary for disabled Union veterans. The grounds were designed as a "total environment"—a park-like haven where those who served could find healing and a dignified life.

The cannons, primarily Civil War-era siege guns and field artillery, were a powerful symbolic presence along the home's winding thoroughfare. They served as a constant reminder of the veterans' service and the history they helped shape.

Where are they now?
To ensure their long-term preservation, many of these historic pieces were eventually turned over to the U.S. Army. Most were moved to the Frontier Army Museum at nearby Fort Leavenworth, where they continue to educate and inspire visitors today.

Next time you visit the VA campus or the Frontier Army Museum, take a moment to reflect on this incredible piece of Leavenworth's military heritage!

06/10/2026

A Global Journey to the Heart of Kansas: The Story of the Dewey Cannon

Did you know that a piece of world history stands guard right here in Leavenworth?

Located on the grounds of what is now the Dwight D. Eisenhower VA Medical Center, the "Carlos 3" cannon (the Dewey Cannon) has a story that spans thousands of miles and over 150 years.
From Seville to Manila...

Cast in Seville, Spain, in 1856, this 6,650 lb bronze giant was originally a defender of the Spanish Empire. In 1898, during the Spanish-American War, it was captured as a prize of war by Admiral George Dewey at San Felipe, near Manila, following the historic Battle of Manila Bay. ⚓

The 60 Cannons of Franklin Avenue

The Dewey Cannon wasn't always alone. At one time, 60 Civil War cannons lined Franklin Avenue, creating a monumental "symbolic guard" for the veterans residing at the Western Branch National Home. While most were eventually turned over to the Fort Leavenworth Museum for preservation, the Dewey Cannon remains a lone guardian on the grounds today.

A Living Memorial
More than just iron and bronze, these artifacts reflect the core mission of the National Home: "To care for him who shall have borne the battle." They serve as a bridge between our local Kansas history and the broader narrative of American service and sacrifice. 🇺🇸

Next time you pass by, take a moment to look at the engraving "Carlos 3" on the barrel and remember the incredible journey it took to get here.

06/10/2026

We had a totally tubular VA2K at Eastern Kansas. This annual event raises awareness and resources for our Veterans in need. EK raised over $5,000 in our 16th Annual VA2K. Please enjoy a few snapshots from our Topeka event. Thank you to all that participated!

06/09/2026

Help us Welcome the newest team members to VA Eastern Kansas Health Care System.
June 2026 New Employees on the Leavenworth campus!

06/09/2026

Our VA Eastern Kansas staff is working hard in our preparation for our Go Live Date for the Federal EHR coming to Eastern Kansas in January 2028! Congrats to Cincinnati VA Medical Center and the other VISN 10 sites that are now live! We look forward to learning and continuing to prepare for our rollout!

06/08/2026

06/06/2026

On this day 82 years ago, Allied forces executed the largest amphibious invasion in history: D-Day. This operation accelerated the defeat of the N**i regime.

As the ranks of WWII veterans grow smaller, our responsibility grows larger: to remember not just their victory, but what they stood against: tyranny, oppression, and genocide.

The D-Day anniversary reminds us that liberty and democracy are not permanent, instead these principles require constant vigilance and the will to defend them against any threat.

06/05/2026

Join us tomorrow - June 6 - in the Recreation Hall of our Colmery-O'Neil VA Medical Center in Topeka for a very awesome display of miniature railroads from 8am to 2pm. You won't be disappointed!

06/05/2026

This Freedom 250 year, we honor Captain Elwin “Al” Shopteese—Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation Soldier, World War II and Korean War Veteran, tribal chairperson, and founder of the I.C.A.R.E. Recovery Home. His story reminds us that service continues long after combat ends.